[10] The ship was sent back to her original builders for extensive alterations, including being fitted with refrigerated holds with capacity for some 94,000 frozen sheep, and increased accommodation for 3rd and steerage class passengers.

[12][15] On 22 September 1897, en route from Wellington, New Zealand to London with frozen meat, the ship's tail shaft broke in mid-South Atlantic, leaving the propeller hanging loose.

With considerable ingenuity and in some danger and discomfort the engineers were able to access the break, fabricate a coupling and draw the shaft together sufficient for Tokomaru to steam 500 miles to Rio de Janeiro.

The ship's underwriters recognised this as a remarkable achievement with a special award of 850 guineas (£935 sterling) to the captain, chief engineer (who both also received the Lloyd's Medal for Meritorious Service) and crew.

[16] Tokomaru was on a voyage from Wellington, Montevideo and Tenerife with frozen meat for Le Havre, fruit and vegetables for London, as well as a consignment of used clothing donated for relief in Belgium.